• Population: 8.2 million
• Capital: Jerusalem
• Demographics (by ethnicity): Jewish (75%), non-Jewish (25%). By religion: Jewish: 75%, Muslim: 18%, Christian: 2%, Other: 5%
• Type of government: Parliamentary Democracy
• Currency: Israeli Shekel
• Common foods: hummus, falafel, tahini, kanafeh, etc.

The official language of Israel is Hebrew. Other languages spoken in Israel include Arabic, Yiddish, English, and Russian. English used to be an official language, and is now still required as a second language is most Israeli schools.

As a University of Illinois student, you have access to library resources (such as Rosetta Stone and Libguides). You may also want to consider free sources to learn basic phrases, or to refresh your language skills prior to departure.

It is each students responsibility to independently verify the visa information below and ensure they apply and secure the appropriate documentation to travel and stay in their host country for the duration of their program.

• An A2 temporary resident visa is required for students on this program and must be valid up to 1 year, with multiple entries.
• A short-term B2 visa can be used for visits of up to 3 months.
• To acquire a visa, one must submit a visa application, a letter of acceptance to their host institution, 2 passport photos, etc. More information about acquiring a visa to Israel can be found on the Embassy website

To read more on passport and visa terminology see the Passports & Visas page of this website.

Phones

• If your cell phone is unlocked, the most convenient way to gain access to cellular data is to purchase a local SIM card and place it into your own phone. It is possible to purchase unlimited cellular service with a local SIM card, as well as virtually unlimited data plans. An alternative option to this if you cannot or do not want to use your own cell phone, is to rent or purchase a local phone in-country.
• A few of the main cellular providers operating in Israel are: Partner, Cellcom, Pelephone, Hot Mobile, and Golan.
• Make sure you have the Duo Mobile app set up on your phone. If you get a new SIM card, use the passcode options instead of PUSH, or go to UI Verify website to enter your new phone information.

Internet

• Internet speed and access throughout the country is good if you are using a data plan.
• WiFi is available in most cafes, malls, hotels, and restaurants.

Electricity

• Israel uses type C and H plugs with round prongs instead of flat ones. You will need to purchase an adapter at the very least, to be able to plug in the devices you bring.
• While an adapter makes your device fit into the local outlet, a converter converts the voltage. The voltage will not be the same as in the U.S. For that reason, it is recommended that you do NOT bring appliances such as hair dryers or hair straighteners with you unless you also purchase a voltage converter.

Using Money

• You will be able to use a credit or debit card at most restaurants and established businesses in Israel. But, it may be a good idea to carry with you a small amount of shekel to use at street markets and small, local vendors.

Banking Tips

• The five largest banks in Israel are: Bank Hapoalim, Bank Leumi, Israel Discount Bank, Mizrahi Tehafot Bank, and First International Bank of Israel. All of these will have ATMs available at the bank location to take out local currency using a debit or credit card.
• Consult your US home bank for estimates on foreign transaction fees and to notify them of your international travel so that your card does not get blocked once you use it in Israel.

Climate

• Israel's climate varies based on its diverse topography, but in general is characterized as having a cool, rainy winter (October-April), and a hot, dry summer (May-September). Higher elevations tend to experience lower temperatures at night and vice versa.
• Average annual temperatures along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea vary between 61 degrees Fahrenheit in January, to 84 degrees Fahrenheit in August.

Packing

• Israel is home to countless religious sites so it is important to be mindful of modesty. That is why even in the summer months, it is recommended that individuals avoid wearing shorts and tank tops. Women are sometimes even encouraged to avoid pants in ultra-Jewish neighborhoods in general, and wear long skirts instead.
• It is recommended that you pack sunscreen, a hat, cap, or even a shawl to cover your head, comfortable walking shoes, and possibly a light jacket in the winter months.
• For more packing considerations, view the Packing List (PDF).

Traveling Locally

• It is important to note that on Saturdays, the day of the Sabbath, public transportation is extremely limited to inaccessible. Rental cars for Saturday use should be rented on Friday and returned on Sunday. Buses and trains in general do not operate from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday.Taxis and sheruts are popular and inexpensive ways to travel within a city.
• Other available forms of transportation include private transfers, shared taxis and shuttles, car rental, and internal flights.
• The most connected bus company in Israel is called Egged, with over 1,000 routes and connections even to rural areas. These, as well as taxis and shuttles tend to be about the same price and easily accessible.

Flights

• Major airports are in: Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Eliat.
• Common Airlines include Arkia and Israir, Elal, Cal, and Dsy.

Each student faces different barriers and unique challenges based on their identity. For example, how you identify in the United States may not be how you choose to identify abroad because of the local social culture. We encourage all students to reflect on the different aspects of their identity and consider how they may play a role in their study abroad experience. To help with this thought process: visit the State Department website and look into the Identity & Inclusion resources available on this website.

International Safety and Security provides important wellness tips, along with using your insurance and the emergency phone number. Be sure to become familiar with this website and the resources available to you. Review the U.S. Embassy page and the Department of State website for additional safety resources.

Enroll yourself in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State. Registration in STEP will allow you to get alerts on the latest safety and security information. In addition, the information you provide enables the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.